Lead with HOPE

What if your breaking point was actually your launching point?

In this episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., host Brandi Kelly sits down with Amy Wadlington, author, speaker, and host of the Prophetic Breakthrough for Christian Women podcast. After 15 years in Corporate America, Amy’s life shifted in 2020 when she was laid off. What followed was a “wilderness season” marked by illness, financial hardship, and uncertainty. But through it all, God led her into a deeper faith—teaching her how to renew her mind, regulate her emotions, and walk in peace amid chaos.

Today, Amy empowers Christian women to step boldly into their God-given calling by combining biblical truth, neuroscience, and coaching.

✨ In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How God can turn your breaking point into your launching point

• Practical tools for renewing your mind and regulating your nervous system

• How to find peace, clarity, and courage through faith

📚 Amy’s Book: Into the Deep: 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting – Contending for the Promise & Stepping Into God’s Call → ⁠https://a.co/d/4Dhiar4⁠

🎧 Listen to Amy’s Podcast:

Apple: ⁠Prophetic Breakthrough for Christian Women⁠

Spotify: ⁠Prophetic Breakthrough for Christian Women⁠

✨ Subscribe to Lead with H.O.P.E. for more faith-filled, H.O.P.E. fueled stories that inspire resilience, purpose, and peace.

Website: ⁠⁠https://sparkhopeedu.com⁠
⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/leadwithhope.23⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/LTW24⁠

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandi-kelly-ed-d-lcsw/⁠

In this episode, we’re honored to be joined by Carman Murray—speaker, coach, and author who helps educators reconnect with what matters most without sacrificing themselves in the process. With over 20 years in education, including 15 years in the classroom, Carman brings the heart of a teacher and the insight of a coach. From her early days in a Grade 1/2 split class to her years inspiring middle school students through foods, leadership, and student leadership conferences, Carman believes that leadership is not a position—it’s a practice.

After leaving the classroom, Carman expanded her mission through workshops, coaching, and her acclaimed book Teachers First: A Guide to Avoiding and Overcoming Burnout in the Classroom. She has spoken at provincial teachers’ conventions, national educator events, and wellness forums across Canada. Today, she supports educators in reclaiming their time, their energy, and their purpose—so they can lead with clarity, alignment, and heart.

✨ Mention Inside This EpisodeDon’t miss the HOPE-Fueled Leadership Kickstart—a powerful experience hosted by Dr. Brandi that helps leaders gain clarity, confidence, and momentum using the System of H.O.P.E. Learn how Habits, Optimistic Outlook, Purpose, and Excellence can transform the way you lead and live.

📬 Connect with Carman Murray

Website: www.healthyteachers.ca

Email: [email protected]⁠

📬 Connect with Dr. Brandi KellyWebsite: sparkhopeedu.comEmail: [email protected]

In this powerful episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. Podcast, host Dr. Brandi Kelly sits down with Ben and Crystal Woods, founders of The Brave Way Home and leaders of the Look Out for the Left Out (LOFTLO) movement.

For more than 25 years, Ben and Crystal have served in vocational ministry—touring musically, mentoring young adults, and leading campus and community ministries. But their most profound ministry was born out of deep grief and unshakable faith. Through their story, listeners will discover how God can redeem pain for purpose and transform sorrow into service.

💬 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• How Ben and Crystal’s story of loss led to a movement of healing and hope
• What it means to “look out for the left out”—and how small acts of kindness can change lives
• The habits and mindsets that sustain faith through suffering
• How to turn adversity into mission-driven impact
• The power of Romans 8:28 — that “in all things God works for the good of those who love Him”

Their journey is a testament to resilience, grace, and the redemptive power of hope—offering encouragement for anyone navigating pain, purpose, or calling.

✨ Learn More About Ben & Crystal Woods

🌐 www.thebravewayhome.com

🌐 www.lookoutfortheleftout.com

🌐 www.lovelikecalla.com

📧 [email protected]

🔗 LinkedIn: benjamin-woods-3a619449

📘 Facebook: facebook.com/thebravewayhome

🌟 Ready to Lead with H.O.P.E.?Discover the H.O.P.E.-Fueled Leadership Kickstart Program — a personalized professional development experience designed to help you lead with Habits, Optimism, Purpose, and Excellence. 👉 Learn more: https://sparkhopeedu.com/home--spark-hope-edu

🔗 More Free Resources from Spark HOPE Edu

• Join the H.O.P.E. Community
• Download the Leader’s Wellness Checklist

• Preview Lead with H.O.P.E.: Building a System of Self-Efficacy
  

🎧 Subscribe, follow, and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review to help spread the message that no matter what you face—there is always H.O.P.E.

In this special solo episode, Dr. Brandi Kelly offers a timely, heartfelt reflection on community, self-awareness, and the transformative power of HOPE as we close out the year. Tying into the December theme of “You Can’t Do This Alone,” Brandi explores why leaders often carry emotional weight differently—and why tending to your own mental well-being isn't a luxury, but a leadership necessity built on strong support systems.She shares lessons from recent guest conversations, including powerful insights from speaker and coach Carman Murray (Episode 71) on how to lead without losing yourself, reminding us that setting boundaries and choosing self-protection is essential for sustainable leadership.You’ll also hear updates on upcoming December conversations featuring Ben and Crystal Woods (Episode 70) and Bethany Rees (Episode 73), who exemplify how vulnerability, connection, and community can help leaders turn their pain and rocky moments into growth. This episode reinforces the concepts of self-awareness and finding strength in others, which are critical to leading with H.O.P.E.This short but powerful episode will help you:

• Give yourself permission to rest and reset.
• Realign your focus with the core truth that Hope grows in relationships and strength is built in community.
• Lead with renewed purpose during a demanding season.
• And remember that you cannot pour from an empty cup.

If you’re a leader who’s feeling stretched thin, overwhelmed, or simply ready for a grounding moment of encouragement and connection, this episode is for you.Subscribe now and join Brandi on a journey toward healthier, more hopeful leadership—one step, one breath, and one spark at a time.

Lead with H.O.P.E. - Intro Chapters: https://sparkhopeedu.com/home--lead-with-hope-introduction

Visit sparkhopeedu.com to sign up for my weekly Quick Spark for Leaders email.

Book a 1:1 with Brandi here: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/tdpdiscovery-e57cf8be-1fb0-470c-966d-f9ffb843015a.

Welcome to Lead with Hope!
In this episode of Lead with Hope, Dr. Brandi Kelly sits down with Tommy Campbell, 2025 Macoupin CEO Alum, to explore how mentors and coaches shape young leaders. Tommy shares what he learned from football, youth group, and his early work experiences—and why showing up, listening, and staying coachable can change everything.

If you’d like to connect with Tommy, you can reach him at 217-556-9181.

Interested in leadership coaching?

As a two-time Principal of the Year with over 20 years of experience, Dr. Brandi Kelly offers The Hope-Fueled Leadership Kickstart—a short, powerful private coaching experience designed to help leaders clarify their vision, make confident decisions, and create strong, connected teams. If this is speaking to you, let’s connect at sparkhopeedu.com.

Dr. Brandi KellyFounder, Spark HOPE Edu

📧 [email protected]

🌐 sparkhopeedu.com

The world needs your leadership, and change starts with you. Fuel your life with H.O.P.E., embrace your purpose, and shine your light for others.

In this episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., Brandi Kelly sits down with Jack Kessinger to explore the power of relationships, networking, and leadership development through the CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities) program. Jack shares his unique experiences as a student leader, reflecting on how the program shaped his mindset, confidence, and ability to connect with others.

Together, Brandi and Jack discuss:

• 🚀 How the CEO program builds leadership and entrepreneurial skills in students.

• 🤝 The role of relationships and mentorship in shaping success.

• 🌐 Why cultivating a strong personal and professional network is essential for growth.

This episode is packed with insights for educators, students, and leaders who believe in the power of connection, opportunity, and HOPE-fueled leadership.

🔗 Connect with Dr. Brandi Kelly & Spark HOPE Edu

🌐 Website: sparkhopeedu.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
🐦 X/Twitter: @jbmrkelly
📸 Instagram: @leadwithhope.23
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brandi-kelly-ed-d-lcsw
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/LTW24
▶️ YouTube: @sparkhopeedu

🎧 Subscribe, follow, and leave a 5-star review to help spread the message that there is always H.O.P.E.

✨ Ready to Reignite Your Leadership? Discover the H.O.P.E.-Fueled Leadership Kickstart Program — a personalized coaching experience designed to help you lead with purpose, passion, and excellence. 👉 Learn more here: ⁠⁠https://sparkhopeedu.com/home--spark-hope-edu⁠⁠

🔗 Additional Free Resources:

• ⁠⁠Join the H.O.P.E. Community⁠⁠

• ⁠⁠Preview Lead with H.O.P.E.: Building a System of Self-Efficacy⁠⁠

In this episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. Podcast, host Brandi Kelly, Ed.D., LCSW sits down with Macie Wright, a 2025 graduate of Gillespie High School and current Millikin University student studying art therapy. Macie is also the founder of Coloring the County Coloring Books, a creative business that blends history, community, and art to inspire learners of all ages.

Together, Brandi and Macie dive into the lessons learned through the CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities) Program, the challenges of leading as a student entrepreneur, and the courage it takes to follow your purpose. Macie shares her journey of resilience, creativity, and hope.

🔑 In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How the CEO Program helped Macie build confidence, leadership skills, and lifelong networks

• Why starting Coloring the County has been a transformational experience

• The power of family support and mentors in pursuing big dreams

Whether you’re a student, educator, entrepreneur, or leader looking for inspiration, this conversation is full of insights about turning passion into purpose and building habits of excellence.

Contact Macie:

📧 Email: [email protected]
Business Inquiries: [email protected]

Contact Brandi:

🌐 Website: sparkhopeedu.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
🐦 Twitter/X: @jbmrkelly
📸 Instagram: @leadwithhope.23
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/LTW24
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brandi-kelly-ed-d-lcsw
▶️ YouTube: @sparkhopeedu

🎧 Subscribe, follow, and leave a 5-star review to help spread the message that there is always H.O.P.E.

✨ Ready to Reignite Your Leadership? Discover the H.O.P.E.-Fueled Leadership Kickstart Program — a personalized coaching experience designed to help you lead with purpose, passion, and excellence. 👉 Learn more here: ⁠⁠https://sparkhopeedu.com/home--spark-hope-edu⁠⁠

🔗 Additional Free Resources:

• ⁠⁠Join the H.O.P.E. Community⁠⁠

• ⁠⁠Preview Lead with H.O.P.E.: Building a System of Self-Efficacy⁠⁠

✨ In this inspiring episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. Podcast, host Dr. Brandi Kelly sits down with Cheryl Mitchell—a former educator, corporate trainer, keynote speaker, and author—whose story reminds us that purpose often grows from unexpected transitions.

Cheryl shares her journey from being a first-grade teacher to leading in the corporate and consulting world, revealing how mindset, resilience, and faith have guided her path. Together, Brandi and Cheryl explore what it means to live a life of Excellence and Purpose—two essential pillars of the H.O.P.E. framework (Habits, Optimism, Purpose, and Excellence).

💬 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• How Cheryl turned a bold midyear career leap into a life of impact
• Why mindset determines the quality of your leadership
• How the CEO program helps students develop purpose and entrepreneurial thinking
• The power of defining moments—and how to find hope when plans fall apart
• Why living a H.O.P.E.-Fueled life means leading with intention, integrity, and courage

🌟 Connect with Cheryl Mitchell

Website: www.cherylbmitchell.com

Farm Legacy: www.farmlegacynow.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cheryl-b-mitchell-97295ba

Facebook: facebook.com/cheryl.bierman.mitchell

Email: [email protected]

🎧 Subscribe, follow, and leave a 5-star review to help spread the message that there is always H.O.P.E.

✨ Ready to Reignite Your Leadership? Discover the H.O.P.E.-Fueled Leadership Kickstart Program — a personalized coaching experience designed to help you lead with purpose, passion, and excellence. 👉 Learn more here: ⁠⁠https://sparkhopeedu.com/home--spark-hope-edu⁠⁠

🔗 Additional Free Resources:

• ⁠⁠Join the H.O.P.E. Community⁠⁠

• ⁠⁠Preview Lead with H.O.P.E.: Building a System of Self-Efficacy⁠⁠

This month, we’re shining a light on the incredible Macoupin County CEO Program — a transformative experience preparing the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs! 🌟

In today’s episode, I’m joined by current students from the CEO program who share their insights, ambitions, and what they’re learning about leadership, resilience, and purpose. Their stories will remind you that the future is bright — and filled with HOPE.

Learn more about the CEO Program here!

✨ Tune in to be inspired by their drive, creativity, and courage to lead. 📣 Help us spread hope!
If this episode encourages you, share it with a friend or colleague and leave a 5-star review to help others find the show. 🔥 Ready to reclaim your vision and reignite your purpose?
Check out the H.O.P.E.-Fueled Leadership Kickstart — a short-term, 1:1 coaching experience designed to help leaders reset, refocus, and lead with HOPE.

👉 Learn more about the HOPE Fueled Leadership Kickstart Here!

🎧 Listen to more episodes and learn about upcoming features at sparkhopeedu.com

#LeadWithHOPE #CEOSpotlight #YouthLeadership #Entrepreneurship #InspiringLeaders #SparkHopeEdu #HOPEFueledLeadership

In this episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., Brandi sits down with Erin Shook, a passionate high school teacher and mom of four, who is redefining what it means to thrive as both an educator and a parent. With more than 17 years in the classroom, Erin brings a wealth of experience in building supportive, balanced environments where students learn not just academics, but also essential life skills like resilience, time management, and emotional well-being.

Together, Brandi and Erin explore:

• The unique challenges and joys of balancing motherhood and teaching.

• Daily habits that help educators stay grounded, optimistic, and resilient.

• How SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) is transforming classrooms.

• Erin’s exciting new project designed to help educator moms break free from the burnout cycle.

• What gives Erin hope right now and inspires her to keep going.

Whether you’re a teacher, a parent, or simply navigating the balancing act of life and leadership, this episode offers encouragement, strategies, and a reminder that you’re not alone in the journey.

Erin's Contact Information:

📧 Email: [email protected]
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/erin-shook-69bbb0b5
📸 Instagram: @teachwell.bewell

Brandi's Contact Information:
🌐 Website: sparkhopeedu.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
🐦 X/Twitter: @jbmrkelly
📸 Instagram: @leadwithhope.23
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brandi-kelly-ed-d-lcsw
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/LTW24
▶️ YouTube: @sparkhopeedu

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